What condition does nitrogen narcosis refer to?

Nitrogen narcosis, often referred to as "rapture of the deep," is indeed a condition that affects divers at greater depths, typically beyond 100 feet (approximately 30 meters). The phenomenon occurs due to increasing pressure underwater, which leads to elevated levels of nitrogen being absorbed by the body. At these depths, nitrogen acts as an anesthetic, resulting in a range of symptoms including impaired judgment, reduced cognitive function, and altered perception of reality.

Divers may experience feelings of euphoria, disorientation, or impaired motor skills, leading to potentially dangerous situations if not recognized and managed. Understanding nitrogen narcosis is crucial for divers, as being able to identify its onset can be vital for safety during a dive. This awareness allows divers to make informed decisions about depth limits and diving conditions as a means to mitigate the risks associated with this condition.

While other options mention aspects related to diving, they do not accurately capture the nature of nitrogen narcosis, which distinctly involves cognitive impairment due to nitrogen's effects at greater depths.